Draft horses roll for several normal reasons, but when rolling becomes excessive or frequent, it may signal an underlying issue. Here’s a quick guide to help you tell the difference.
First, understand that rolling is a natural behavior for horses. They roll to scratch their back, dry off after a bath or sweat, or simply to stretch and soothe muscles. Draft horses, with their large, heavy bodies, may roll a bit more than lighter breeds because their thick coats trap moisture and debris. But if your draft horse is rolling multiple times a day, at unusual times, or seems distressed, take note.
Possible Reasons for Increased Rolling
1. Skin Irritations and Itching
Draft horses have thick, dense coats that can hide skin problems. Common causes of itching include:
– Mange or lice: These parasites cause intense itching. Check for hair loss, scaly patches, or visible bugs.
– Allergies: Seasonal allergies to pollen or molds can trigger rolling.
– Sweat or moisture: After heavy work or hot weather, a sweaty coat can cause irritation. Rolling helps them dry off and scratch.
If your horse rolls and then stands to rub its head or tail on fences, skin issues are likely. Try a thorough grooming and check for signs of parasites. Your vet can recommend a skin scrape if needed.
2. Colic or Abdominal Pain
Colic is a common reason for excessive rolling in all horses, but draft horses may be more prone to impaction colic due to their slower gut motility. Signs of colic include:
– Rolling repeatedly, often getting up and down
– Looking at their flank, kicking at belly
– Pawing, sweating, or lying down more than usual
– Reduced appetite or not passing manure
If your horse rolls and seems restless or in pain, call your vet immediately. Colic can be fatal. Do not force the horse to walk if it’s trying to roll; that can cause injury.
3. Joint or Muscle Discomfort
Draft horses are prone to arthritis, especially in their hocks and stifles due to their heavy weight. Stiffness or soreness may prompt them to roll to ‘pop’ their back or relieve tension. Look for:
– Difficulty getting up or lying down
– Swollen joints
– Reluctance to move or stiffness after rest
If you suspect joint pain, your vet can perform a lameness exam and suggest joint supplements or anti-inflammatories.
4. Behavioral or Environmental Factors
Boredom or lack of turnout can lead to stereotypical rolling. Horses that spend long hours in a stall may roll out of habit or stress. Also, changes in bedding (new shavings, different texture) can cause rolling to get comfortable.
Ensure your horse has adequate turnout time, pasture mates, and engaging activities like slow feeders or toys.
When to Call the Vet
Call your vet if rolling is accompanied by:
– Signs of colic (pawing, flank-watching, sweating)
– Distress or inability to stand
– Lack of appetite or manure output
– Visible injury or swelling
– More than 10 minutes of continuous rolling
Even if no other symptoms, if the rolling is a new behavior and persists for more than a day, a vet visit is wise.
How to Monitor and Manage
Keep a log: note when rolling happens, for how long, and any triggers (after feeding, after work, during certain weather). Check your horse’s skin and hooves regularly. Maintain a clean stall to reduce parasites and moisture. And always keep fresh water available.
Remember, occasional rolling is normal. But increased frequency or intensity warrants investigation. Your draft horse’s comfort is worth the extra attention.
Key Takeaway
Increased rolling in draft horses often points to itching, colic, or joint pain; monitor closely and call a vet if other signs appear.